The Best Fishing Poles for Backpacking: A Complete Guide
Backpacking and hiking trips can be an incredible way to explore the great outdoors, and for many outdoor enthusiasts, fishing adds an extra layer of enjoyment to these adventures. Whether you’re trekking through remote mountain creeks or hiking along the coast, having the best fishing pole for backpacking can make a big difference in your experience. In this guide, we’ll cover the best fishing rod and reel combos for backpacking, helping you choose the right one based on your location, fish species, and specific needs.
From lightweight, telescopic rods to complete fishing kits, we’ll dive into the essential factors you need to consider before choosing a fishing pole for your next hiking trip.
Why Is a Good Fishing Rod and Reel Combo Important for Backpacking?
When you’re backpacking, every ounce matters. You’ll need to strike a balance between performance and weight to ensure your fishing pole doesn’t become an extra burden. The right rod and reel combo will help you fish effectively without adding too much bulk to your pack. Additionally, depending on the type of fishing you plan to do—whether it’s freshwater or saltwater, small fish or large fish—you’ll need to select a rod and reel combo designed for those conditions.
Let’s break down what to look for when choosing the best fishing pole for backpacking.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fishing Pole for Backpacking
- Weight: Since you’ll be hiking long distances, it’s important to select a fishing rod and reel combo that’s as lightweight as possible without compromising durability or performance. Look for lightweight, collapsible, or telescopic rods, which are ideal for minimizing bulk and weight.
- Length: The length of your fishing pole will impact your casting distance and control. Generally, for backpacking, shorter rods (around 6-7 feet) are preferred as they are more compact and easier to pack. Longer rods are suitable for larger fish or specific fishing techniques, but for hiking and backpacking, a compact rod will be more practical.
- Durability: You’ll want a fishing rod and reel combo that can withstand the harsh conditions of backpacking. Look for rods made from durable materials like graphite or fiberglass, which are both lightweight and strong.
- Fishing Environment: The type of environment you’ll be fishing in will affect your gear selection. For freshwater fishing in lakes, rivers, and streams, a lightweight, versatile spinning rod will usually suffice. For saltwater fishing in the ocean, you’ll need a rod and reel combo that can handle the power and size of larger fish.
- Ease of Setup: A rod that can be easily assembled and disassembled is crucial when you’re on the move. Telescopic rods, which collapse down into a compact form, are great for backpacking because they’re convenient and easy to store.
- Comprehensive Kits: Some telescopic fishing poles come with everything you need to fish, including fishing line, hooks, jig heads, and lures. These all-in-one kits can save you time and money, making them ideal for backpackers who want to travel light while having all the necessary equipment.
Best Fishing Rod and Reel Combos for Backpacking
Now that we know what to look for, let’s explore some of the best fishing rods and reels for backpacking. Whether you’re fishing in freshwater or saltwater, we’ve compiled a list of some top options to make your fishing experience enjoyable while on the go.
1. Sougayilang Telescopic Spin Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
The Sougayilang Telescopic Spin Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-quality, budget-friendly fishing setup. The combination of a lightweight, collapsible rod and a smooth-spinning reel makes it ideal for backpackers and hikers.
- Features:
- The rod is made of high-density carbon fiber, making it both lightweight and durable.
- The telescopic design allows for easy storage and portability.
- Comes with a reel that features smooth drag performance and an anti-reverse system.
- The kit includes fishing line, lures, and hooks, making it a convenient all-in-one solution.
- Best For: This setup is perfect for fishing in freshwater environments such as mountain streams and lakes. It’s lightweight and easy to pack, making it a great option for backpacking.
- Why It’s Great for Backpacking: The Sougayilang combo offers a fantastic balance of quality and portability. The telescopic rod collapses to a compact size, and the kit includes essential fishing accessories, so you don’t have to carry extra gear.
2. Plusinno Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
The Plusinno Telescopic Fishing Rod and Reel Combo is another popular choice for backpackers. Known for its lightweight design and ease of use, this combo comes in a range of sizes, making it versatile for different types of fishing. Plus, it’s designed with durability in mind, which is crucial for outdoor adventures.
- Features:
- Made from durable fiberglass and carbon fiber composite materials, ensuring both strength and flexibility.
- The telescopic design allows it to fold down to a compact size, ideal for packing.
- The reel comes with a smooth drag system and a high-speed gear ratio, which is perfect for catching a variety of fish.
- Includes fishing line, hooks, lures, and a carrying case for easy storage and transport.
- Best For: This rod and reel combo is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. It’s especially great for backpackers who want to be prepared for both types of environments.
- Why It’s Great for Backpacking: The lightweight design and telescopic rod make it easy to pack and carry. Plus, it’s a versatile option that works well for a variety of fishing conditions.
3. The KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Fishing Rod
The KastKing Blackhawk II Telescopic Fishing Rod is a premium choice for serious anglers who want to have a high-quality fishing pole while backpacking. Its innovative design and high-performance features make it one of the best telescopic rods for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
- Features:
- The rod is constructed with a carbon fiber and fiberglass blend, ensuring that it is both lightweight and durable.
- Features a unique 24-ton carbon fiber construction that provides a responsive and sensitive feel for detecting bites.
- The telescopic design makes it compact and easy to store in your pack.
- Available in various lengths, ranging from 6’ to 7’, making it adaptable for different fishing needs.
- Best For: This rod is great for anglers who need a high-performance setup for catching both small and large fish. It’s especially good for fishing in freshwater streams, lakes, and coastal environments.
- Why It’s Great for Backpacking: Its lightweight and compact design make it perfect for hiking. Additionally, the KastKing Blackhawk II offers great sensitivity and durability, making it an excellent all-around rod for backpacking.
4. Okuma Celilo Telescopic Spin Rod and Reel Combo
The Okuma Celilo Telescopic Spin Rod and Reel Combo is a top choice for backpackers looking for an affordable yet reliable fishing setup. This combo offers great value for money, combining a durable rod and a smooth-reeling spinning reel in a lightweight, telescopic design.
- Features:
- Constructed from high-density carbon fiber material, which ensures strength while keeping the weight low.
- The telescopic rod design allows for easy storage and portability.
- The spinning reel features a smooth drag system and precision gear for hassle-free casting and retrieval.
- The combo includes a carrying case, hooks, line, and lures.
- Best For: The Okuma Celilo combo is great for freshwater fishing, especially in smaller creeks, lakes, and streams. It’s designed for catching smaller fish like trout, panfish, and bass.
- Why It’s Great for Backpacking: The compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for long hikes. Plus, the affordable price point ensures you won’t have to spend too much on gear for your adventure.
5. The Eagle Claw Trailmaster Spinning Combo
For a more classic, reliable choice, the Eagle Claw Trailmaster Spinning Combo has been a favorite among backpackers for years. It’s a telescopic rod that’s durable, versatile, and easy to use for fishing in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
- Features:
- Made from high-quality fiberglass and designed to handle various types of fish.
- Telescopic design allows for easy packing.
- The spinning reel features a smooth drag and adjustable components for custom fishing experiences.
- Includes a travel case for added portability.
- Best For: The Eagle Claw combo is great for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, making it a versatile choice for backpackers heading out on multi-environment trips.
- Why It’s Great for Backpacking: Its affordable price, coupled with a durable design and smooth reel, make it an excellent choice for budget-conscious backpackers who don’t want to compromise on quality.
Freshwater vs Saltwater: Choosing the Right Rod and Reel for Backpacking
When backpacking, you’ll need to decide whether you’ll be fishing in freshwater or saltwater. This decision will affect your rod and reel choice.
- Freshwater Fishing: If you’re fishing in lakes, rivers, or mountain creeks, a smaller, lightweight spinning rod is typically sufficient. Fish like trout, bass, and panfish are common in these environments, and you’ll want a versatile rod that can handle smaller catches.
- Saltwater Fishing: If you plan to fish along the coast or in the ocean, you’ll need a sturdier rod capable of handling larger fish like snook, redfish, or even striped bass. Opt for a medium to heavy-action rod and reel combo, and make sure the gear is rust-resistant, as saltwater can damage your equipment.
Conclusion
The best fishing rod and reel combo for backpacking depends on your specific needs, the environment you’re fishing in, and your target species. Telescopic rods like the Sougayilang, Plusinno, and KastKing offer great portability and convenience for backpackers, while providing a high-quality fishing experience. Whether you’re fishing in freshwater or saltwater, there’s a perfect rod and reel combo out there for your next adventure. When choosing your gear, prioritize weight, durability, and ease of use, and make sure the combo comes with everything you need for a successful trip.